The dynamic effects of sediment availability on the relationship between wind speed and dust concentration

Abstract Where sediment supply is unlimited, previous research suggests that a strong, positive relationship between wind speed and dust concentration exists at the event scale. This relationship can break down if sediment availability is limited or changes during an event. This paper explores the dynamic effects of sediment availability on the relationship between wind speed and dust concentration using data from nine high‐latitude dust events recorded in Iceland. Of these events, six showed a strong positive relationship between wind speed and dust concentration. For the remainder, the relationship breaks down periodically during the event due to changing surface moisture conditions and atmospheric humidity. Results suggest a need to understand how spatial and temporal changes in humidity, surface soil moisture, soil texture and threshold velocity interact and control sediment availability for dust emissions in all environments, including at high latitudes. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.